Judge blocks British activist's challenge to Trump-era deportation order

In Manhattan, U.S. District Judge Loretta Preska dismissed the lawsuit filed by British anti-disinformation activist Imran Ahmed, finding she lacked jurisdiction over his free-speech and due-process claims. While acknowledging that Ahmed might have valid causes of action, the judge adhered to a recent appellate ruling that bars her from hearing the case. The ruling clears the way for the Trump administration to proceed with Ahmed's detention, though Preska left a restraining order effective for five business days to give him time to appeal.

Ahmed, who leads the U.S.-based Center for Countering Digital Hate, had previously secured a temporary block on the administration's policy that targets foreign nationals for visa bans and deportations. The broader policy has faced criticism for punishing critics of U.S. foreign policy and for its impact on legal permanent residents. The decision underscores ongoing legal battles over the administration's immigration enforcement tactics.